NCJ Number
174069
Date Published
1996
Length
125 pages
Annotation
This report examines use of deadly force and dynamic entry by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).
Abstract
ATF's deadly force policies are generally consistent with those of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The ATF, DEA, and FBI convey deadly force policies to their agents in similar ways, including classroom lectures and discussions, practical exercises, and periodic reviews. Dynamic entry relies on speed and surprise and may involve forced entry. It is a preferred tactic during high-risk operations where ATF believes that suspects pose a threat of violence or in operations where evidence can be easily destroyed. ATF's use of dynamic entries and related equipment is generally comparable to FBI's and DEA's. ATF's procedures for reporting, investigating and reviewing shooting and excessive force incidents, which were revised in October 1994, are comparable to DEA and FBI procedures. This study did not evaluate the events that resulted in the incidents or the quality and adequacy of ATF's investigations, and did not verify whether all shooting or excessive force incidents were reported or whether all reported incidents were investigated. Tables, notes, abbreviations, figures, appendixes